Hydrangea – Plant Profile

Hydrangea.

kalleco nursery hydrangea shrub-9

Description: Hydrangea describes a number of deciduous, woody-stemmed shrubs with iconic clusters of flowers. The foliage comes in many shades of green, and varies in shape depending on the variety.

Hydrangeas are best known for their clusters of four- or five-petal flowers that bloom late June into the fall. Color ranges greatly, red and pink to purple and blue, and some varieties come in white. Flower color will largely vary based on the composition of the soil it’s planted in. Many times, flower color will vary from one side of the plant to another and occasionally, from one part of the bloom to another, resulting in beautiful multi-colored displays.

Common Varieties:

  • “Oakleaf” – A U.S. native! Huge, elongated white blooms and lovely lobed leaves that turn brilliant orange and red in the fall.
  • “Peegee” – A hardy, white-bloomer ideal for areas that get partial sun for several hours a day. It features abundant white flowers and can be pruned into a tree shape if desired.
  • “Lacecap” – A lovely variety featuring small, lace-like buds at the top of bloom clusters. Varies in color from blue to red.
  • “Annabelle” – A white blooming hydrangea and the most popular in home gardens. This beauty can have blooms up to 10’ wide!

Planting and Growth Habits: Hydrangea flower color depends on the pH level of the soil, so choosing a location is key. More acidic soils will yield red or pink blooms, while less acidic soils will result in blue and purple blooms.

Depending on the variety, hydrangea shrubs generally have a mound-shape and grow 2’-3’ in height, though some may reach 7’-9’. To maintain shape and size, prune them after new growth in the spring and early summer.

Since color varies based on soil, oftentimes a blue hydrangea will revert back to pink once planted. Miracid is a fertilizer designed to provide hydrangea with the pH level it needs to stay blue, so nursery manager Meghan recommends it for the blue-lovers out there!

Special Features: Long bloom-period; Color; Hardy; Fall Interest; Partial Shade.

Complements: Hydrangeas like partial shade, so they make a great addition to backyard gardens. Meghan suggests making a statement with holly, astilbe, ferns and hosta.